MST — Military Sexual Trauma
The VA's term for sexual assault or sexual harassment that occurred during military service.
Official source: va.gov
Veterans who experienced Military Sexual Trauma (MST) can receive free mental health counseling from the VA. This is available even if they do not qualify for other VA health care services. It is important to know that veterans do not need to have reported the incident while in service to file a claim for PTSD related to MST. The VA will accept different types of evidence, such as changes in behavior, medical treatment records, and statements from fellow service members.
Veterans should also note that their discharge status does not prevent them from getting MST-related mental health care. This means that even if a veteran has a less than honorable discharge, they can still seek help. For immediate support, veterans can reach out to the VA MST Support Team or call the Veterans Crisis Line at 988 and press 1. Seeking help is a brave step towards healing.
In real life
- A veteran who experienced military sexual trauma can get free help from the VA.
- Someone can receive payments from the VA if military sexual trauma led to a disability.
- A person does not need to have reported the event in the military to get VA care for military sexual trauma.
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Frequently asked questions about MST
What is Military Sexual Trauma (MST)?+
The VA's term for sexual assault or sexual harassment that occurred during military service, recognized as a basis for VA disability compensation and for free VA mental health care regardless of whether a formal military report was filed. Veterans who experienced MST are eligible for free VA mental health counseling related to MST, even if otherwise ineligible for VA health care.
Who qualifies for MST?+
Veterans (and in some cases their dependents or survivors) who meet the program's specific service, discharge, and eligibility rules. Use the BK Calculator and Filing Success Score to check your situation.
How do I apply for MST?+
Apply at va.gov (search for the program by name) or work with a free accredited Veterans Service Officer (VSO) through your state VA office.
Where can I get help?+
Use BenefitKarma's free Benefit Eligibility Screener to see what VA benefits you may have missed, or talk with a free accredited Veterans Service Officer (VSO) through your state VA office.
Source: va.gov